BARCELONA
Raphinha injured against Mallorca: will he be fit to play for Barcelona against Napoli in the Champions League?
The Brazilian winger was forced off with an ankle problem in the first half of Friday’s LaLiga game, minutes after winning a penalty.
Barcelona winger Raphinha suffered an injury scare in the LaLiga victory over Mallorca but is expected to be available to play in Tuesday’s crucial Champions League round-of-16 second leg against Napoli.
What injury did Raphinha suffer against Mallorca?
The Brazilian went off in the 37th minute of Friday’s game, with those of a Barça persuasion fearing the worst, especially in the light of recent injuries suffered by Frenkie de Jong and Pedri.
Raphinha took a blow to the ankle midway through the half as he won a penalty, which was missed by Ilkay Gündogan. The former Leeds United attacker attempted to play on but asked to be replaced a little over 10 minutes later, with Fermín López coming on in his place.
However, initial tests have already confirmed that he hasn’t sustained a significant injury, much to the relief of the Barcelona coaching staff and, of course, the player himself. The results show Raphinha has suffered a minor strain that won’t prevent him from being ready to face Napoli.
Barça injury update before Napoli: Ferran, Alonso, Yamal, de Jong, Pedri, Balde, Gavi...
The signs are that Xavi Hernández will also be able to call upon Ferran Torres and Marcos Alonso, both of whom have been suffering from recent injuries.
There was also some concern over Lamine Yamal, who scored the winner against Mallorca in the second half but was seen clutching his foot after a challenge late in the game. However, the teenager has told teammates and Xavi he will be fine for the midweek game.
Provided there are no last-minute setbacks, Barcelona will be without four players against the Italians - de Jong, Pedri, Alejandro Balde and Gavi. The teams played out a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Naples on 21 February.